Common Questions
and Answers

A: Unfortunately, that rumor has been around for a long time. And it isn't true. There was a time you could walk right up the pier with your suitcase in hand, book the cruise, pay on the site and board the ship. That was long ago. Not only do today's security measures prevent that from happening (all sales for cruises are cut off several days in advance and all manifests for sailing passengers are put through a security screen) -- the cruise lines prefer to offer early booking discounts rather than last minute discounts.

Those passengers booking early get better rates, and much better cabin selection as well. All bookings are tied into a computerized system that controls fares based on capacity. As the ship fills up -- the rates go up as well. The cruise lines know if the ship has reached a certain capacity by a certain date prior to sailing, whether or not that ship will sail full. They will of course, charge what the market is willing to pay. Everything is based on supply and demand. However, we do offer to our guests -- if a lower price becomes available after you have booked your cruise -- we will secure that lower rate for you and apply it to your booking. You can't lose by booking early. You certainly can lose by booking late. Not only are you likely to pay higher rates and have less options for cabin selection -- it is quite possible that you won't be able to obtain space at all.

A: Unless you have instructed us to hold an option for you, which requires the names of the people who are sailing, the quote is subject to change until such time you are ready for us to take an option. An option will hold the quote for 1 - 3 days in order for you to make a decision. After that time frame, a deposit will be required by the cruise line in order to secure the space for you. The deposit can be from $100 per person for the shorter cruises -- $250 per person for the 7 night cruises and $350 - $600 per person for longer cruises, depending on the cruise line. They will inform us of the amount of the deposit as well as the date it is due at the time we take the option for you. Your deposit is fully refundable by the cruise line should you change your mind about sailing up until the date they have specified as their penalty date -- and usually that is up until the date of the final payment due date -- ranging from 70 days prior to the sailing (for most cruise lines) to as much as 120 days prior to the sailing for the longer sailings on the luxury cruise lines. Holiday sailings also usually require final payment further out from the cruise date than normal sailings. Once you have made deposit -- your price is guaranteed not to go any higher regardless of the rates going up for new bookings.

A: All cruises, regardless of their embarkation and sailing port, require positive proof of citizenship. For all US residents, some cruises -- those going to the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, or Hawaii will accept a certified copy of the birth certificate (state issued with raised seal, no photostats, no souvenir hospital certificates) along with a government or state issued picture ID. Children traveling with parents under the age of 16 will need only their birth certificates. However, passports are recommended if you have them. All non-US residents will require a valid passport along with multiple entry Visas for all travel. All non-US residents should call their own consulate in order to ascertain the necessary documentation you will need for your travels. It does vary depending on your actual citizenship and the ports you will be calling on. This is a passenger responsibility. The cruise lines have no control over this issue, it is an INS rule that is strictly adhered to. Without proper documentation, you will not be permitted to board the ship -- no exceptions are made. HOWEVER -- we do recommend that all passengers carry valid passports for all travel. If you do not have a passport, perhaps you should consider applying for one. As our world changes, personal preparedness for changes in our travel documents would be wise.

A: It really depends on where you are going, which cruise line, and the length of the cruise. All cruise lines permit resort type casual wear aboard the ships during the day. No swim wear is permitted in the dining rooms, however, food is available on the deck for those wishing to remain in their swim wear for the entire day. The dining rooms require that appropriate clothing along with shoes, be worn at all times. Country Club type casual wear is permitted most nights in the dining room (no jeans, shorts, or tee-shirts) and on most cruises there will be at least one formal night (shorter cruises, less than 7 night) -- for 7 night cruises there are two formal nights -- and for longer cruises there will be at least three formal nights, and depending on the cruise line, there could be more. Most cruise lines will also designate at least one other night during a 7 night cruise as "semiformal" and more on a longer cruise. Those nights suggest a coat and tie for the men, and dressy pants outfits or dresses for the ladies -- much like you wear out to a fine dining type restaurant. Formal nights suggest dark suits and ties or tuxedos for the men and after-five type apparel for the women. However, many women do choose to wear very conservative type dresses rather than the flashy sequined ones. It is certainly a personal choice and your interpretation of "formal" that remains within the cruise's guidelines for appropriate attire. For those guests not wishing to participate in the formal nights, alternative dining options are offered on most all the ships (buffets, bistros, pizza bars, etc.), as well as room service.

A: It doesn't matter how old you are, there is something for everyone! Most cruise ships have wonderful programs for children that can keep them entertained all day.

Most all cruise lines are very family friendly. There are children's counselors on board and many age-appropriate activities are provided. Most children meet new friends and become avid cruise enthusiasts just as the adults do. Many families are choosing cruising for family vacations due to the educational opportunities provided for visiting new and exciting places as well as the opportunity for everyone (including moms and dads) to participate in as much or as little as they personally choose to do. And there are wonderful options to choose from! There are no excuses for boredom on today's cruise ships.

A: When the costs of a land-based vacation is totaled up, the price can be staggering, and far greater than the budget expected when the trip began. Try adding up the cost of a first class hotel, three gourmet meals a day, plus snacks all day long, the transportation costs of changing locales every day, professional live entertainment every night, nightclubs, dancing and discos every night, activities, parties, first run movies, and more (that is what you get for your cruise fare) -- then compare that with your cruise price -- and we believe you will find that the value for the cruise far outweighs the value for the land vacation that affords you the same luxuries. Today's floating resorts just can't be beat for value.

A: With the technology these days, the ships have everything including stabilizers to keep the ship from rocking. So, there is almost no chance of getting seasick.

For those fearful passengers who expect to get seasick, they certainly will. For most of those who do not expect to get seasick, they probably will not. In fact, most people report that they are usually not even aware when the ship is sailing. For those who do become ill, there are many new products today to help prevent discomfort ranging from patches to be worn (must be prescribed by a physician) to mild OTC meds designed just for that, some herbal remedies, as well as various types of pressure bands to be worn on the wrists and cause absolutely no side effects whatsoever. We do recommend that no "preventive" meds be taken until you actually do suffer from some type of discomfort from the motion. The oral medications can cause dizziness and drowsiness, that you might not even need to experience in the first place.

A: The airlines all restrict the number of bags permitted per passenger to one personal item (purse or briefcase) and one additional small carryon. They permit two bags to be checked that fall within the guidelines of size and weight for domestic or international travel. The particular airline for which you are traveling on will be able to give you the specific information for them. If you are driving to the port, you are not as limited as you are for air travel, however, keep in mind that most passengers travel with far more items than they will need on the trip, and there is limited closet and drawer space in most cabins. The ships all have great shops and stores on board for "forgotten" items, and also for new clothing, as well everything from tee-shirts and swimsuits to formal attire. There are jewelry stores, perfume shops, cosmetics, and just about every other type of item available in any mall. Save some space in your luggage to pack those new clothes and gifts purchased either at sea or in port. All bags and passengers go through the same screening process for boarding a cruise ship as you do for boarding an airplane. Carry all medications and valuables with you in your carryon bags. Luggage checked in an airport can no longer be locked since all luggage is now subject to being opened and searched at a far greater number with the new regulations. All bags are now screened for explosives. Anything that even remotely appears to be "suspicious" can necessitate the hand search of a particular bag. If bags are locked and cannot be opened should they deem that yours needs to be -- the bag will not be processed through -- but will be disposed of.

A: As your travel professionals -- we never travel without it. Most people are unaware that their own medical insurance is not valid outside the US. While only a small percentage of those traveling will ever need medical attention in a foreign port, or on board a ship -- some do. The cost of an unexpected illness or injury can be devastating. Travel insurance covers those expenses up to a particular amount depending on the actual coverage you choose. It will also cover your medical evacuation from the ship, should it be necessary, and also will provide transportation to return you back home should you have to terminate your cruise or trip. Again, the limitations of the coverage are dependent on the type coverage you choose. Probably the most used of all coverages is the trip cancellation portion. The date the penalty begins with the cruise line or tour company, is the date they will begin applying fees to you should you have to cancel beginning with the amount you paid for your original deposit, right up to the full penalty -- or 100% of the total cost of the trip -- if you have to cancel within a short period of time just before the trip (all cancellation policies and penalty amounts are listed in each cruise line's or tour operator's brochure).

The peace of mind of knowing your investment is protected, as well as your health should you encounter a problem while traveling, is well worth the cost of the insurance for most people. There are also baggage allowances for lost or late luggage, missed connections for flights, and trip delays. There are those who travel frequently and never take the insurance. It is certainly a personal choice. If the insurance is taken within a week of the first deposit, many policies will waive any condition that would be termed "preexisting" if you meet certain restrictions. Insurance can be purchased up until shortly prior to the travel date -- however, any preexisting condition that should cause you to have to cancel or to be treated medically on your trip may not be covered. We tell our guests that the trip cancellation / interruption / medical coverage provided is insuring against the unexpected -- not the expected. If you don't need the insurance at all during your trip -- you may well consider it an unnecessary expense that you could have done without. However, should you have to cancel your trip just before the departure date, have unexpected illnesses back home with family members, or experience a personal illness or accident while away, then the insurance was worth every dime you paid for it. We will be happy to provide you with more information regarding the various coverages and the cost per person for your particular trip.

A: Good question -- and we have one for you -- what about all the kids at school who are also sick (did you still send your kids to school?) -- or the people you are shopping with at the mall (are you not going shopping?) -- or the people in your office (will your boss understand if you tell him/her that you think you will stay home for a few days until everyone else is well?) Unfortunately, the media hype over all this has been far out of proportion for the "problem". As reported by the CDC -- the Norwalk virus has been around for many years and a major number of people will have the symptoms from time to time -- it is passed from person to person -- not ship to person. Good hand-washing alone can greatly diminish your possibilities of picking it up regardless of where you may be. The ships are not "infected" -- however, there will certainly be guests boarding for every sailing who are -- and it is an impossibility to screen passengers who are boarding with any type of infectious virus, just as it cannot be screened for in a school or any where else for that matter. Staying home and isolating yourself from everyone else may be the only protection you have from that or a common cold -- which actually lasts longer and has more potential for moving on into something more serious, such as bronchitis, respiratory problems, and even pneumonia. It is really unfortunate that so many have become so super sensitive to the things we all took so for granted --such as "stomach viruses", flu, common colds, etc. -- prior to Sept. 11, 2001.

A: Most people who have never cruised are certainly a bit apprehensive about not having enough to do. Well, most people who have sailed will tell you that there were far too many activities to choose from and far too little time to do them all. In fact, on a typical week's cruise, most people report that they didn't even get to see the entire ship, or enjoy all it had to offer. The days off the ship in ports of call can be very exhausting, and just a nice nap, a pool-side drink or a chance to sit on the deck and read a nice book can be just the answer. Don't forget that in addition to all the planned activities going on throughout the day and evenings -- there is a casino, shops, television in every stateroom, movies, a spa offering facials, massages, saunas, hot tubs, etc. -- a fully equipped gym -- an extensive library, cyber cafes, open and spacious decks, lounges for reading or sunning, swimming pools, live bands, and nonstop dining opportunities. Every night provides live entertainment in the theater ranging from individual performances by known entertainers to productions of Broadway type performances with lavish costumes and sets, and Las Vegas type revues. Many ships have basketball courts, some have rock climbing walls, in-line skating, ice skating, jogging tracks, miniature golf, pubs, game arcades, and Ping-Pong tables. (Sorry, skeet shooting is a thing of the past). Every ship will have a passenger satisfaction survey taken at the end of each sailing. Statistics have pretty much proven that 97% of those sailing had a very positive cruise experience, and that 85% of those will sail again. Of that 97% --3% found it so incredible that they scored everything as excellent. Chances are -- those people are just happy people enjoying life where ever they happen to be. Only 3% on the average hated the experience. They can usually find nothing that met their expectations from the room, the service, the food, the ports of call, the entertainment -- and probably even their traveling companion, although that question is never asked. Chances are -- most of those same respondents would not be happy at home either. So based on all the options offered on board the majority of the cruise ships -- only the traveling passenger will be able to determine whether or not boredom will be experienced.

A: All ports, just as all airports, provide parking areas for traveling guests. There are charges for this privilege, which varies from port to port. Most charge a daily rate and the ranges are usually between $10 and $15 per day. Most of the parking areas provide both open parking and parking garages. Most all are very secure -- however, just as it is anywhere else -- it is park at your own risk.

A: If you have purchased cruise line air, the cruise line will provide your transfers to and from the airport and the ship. If you have purchased your air separate from the cruise line -- you are responsible for getting yourself to the port and back to the airport after the cruise. Some ports are not far from the airport, and taxis are quite reasonable in price. In some ports (many foreign port departures and also Anchorage, Alaska, as well as Port Canaveral in Florida) -- the closest airport is quite a distance from the port, and taxi fares could be exorbitant. In those instances, we recommend that you purchase the cruise line's transfers. We will be happy to provide you pricing for those at the time of your booking.

A: We wish we could tell you that never happens. If you have purchased air through the cruise lines, you do have a level or protection that you would not have with independent air. We recommend that you plan to go a day early, especially if you are booking your own air. With today's delayed flights due to the new security procedures, canceled flights for weather delays or mechanical problems, they can create a stressful situation that can affect the entire duration of your vacation. Building an extra day into your travel prior to your trip can help you get your trip off to a much better start, get a good night's sleep, have a leisurely breakfast and head off for the ship relaxed and ready for a great experience. If your schedule will simply not permit you to go a day early, then book a very early flight that will permit you to have some built in time for those possible delays. If you do miss the ship, there are port authorities and cruise line personnel available to advise you the best method to catch up with the ship in another port -- if possible. We, as your travel professionals, are also available to you seven days a week to assist you in case of such an event. Unfortunately, boarding down the line is no longer possible in some situations -- and sometimes only if you have purchased the cruise line air. So even if the cruise line's air package is more costly than you can provide independently -- a very strong consideration needs to be made regarding the possibilities should you miss the ship. Let's say for example the particular cruise you are scheduled for is canceled for some reason -- and unfortunately, that sometimes happens, although it is rare -- if you have the cruise line's air -- you are totally covered by the cruise line. If the departure date is changed, or even the departure port, you are taken care of by them. If you have booked independent air, quite possibly there are no changes that can be made without stiff penalties by the airline.

A: There are cruises designed to suit virtually every interest and personal preference. The choices include: boutique, luxury cruises with globe-trotting itineraries; large, contemporary ships with a fantastic array of recreational facilities; classic vessels evoking the time-honored traditions of cruising; special-interest or exploration cruises specializing in unique destinations with an accent on cultural enrichment. There are cruise lines that feature soft adventure expeditions to such unusual and rustic frontiers as Antarctica, the Amazon Rain Forest or the African Serengeti. Or discover historical legacies closer to home with enlightening itineraries to New England, French Canada and the Colonial America coast. For experienced travelers, destination-focused cruises specialize in culturally-rich ports of call with itineraries dedicated to illuminating such historic, world-class treasures as the antiquities of classical Greece, the Polynesian paradise of Hawaii or the fabled splendor of Norwegian fjords. For many, the perfect vacation includes the nonstop fun and sun of a tropical resort-style cruise to the Caribbean, where you can sample a variety of island cultures and cuisines while working on a terrific sun tan. Plus many cruise lines create special "themes" on board, with entertainment ranging from jazz festivals and classical music concerts to golf clinics and murder mysteries at sea.

The differences between the cruise lines can be as varied as the differences between all the restaurants, hotels, or shopping choices we have in our home towns. There is something there for everyone -- from the budget traveler to the seasoned traveler who wishes to experience (and pay for!) all the possible luxuries a cruise can provide. There is a rating system for cruise lines based on the space ratio for passengers, the number of crew per passenger -- which affects level of service -- the amount of money spent per day per passenger -- which affects the quality of the food served. While there is never a shortage of food available on any cruise, there can certainly be a difference in the quality of the food being served. Just as everyone has their own preferences for their dining experiences, or hotel or motels they choose when traveling -- the same principles apply to cruising. We will be happy to assist you in selecting just the appropriate cruise line for your best opportunity to meet your own cruise expectations.

A: Today's cruise ships are all "one-class". Everyone can use all of the ship's facilities. The price of a cabin is based primarily on its size and location. Regardless of the category you book, you'll enjoy the same courteous service, menus, activities, and entertainment as everyone else on board. Some of the cruise lines do offer some extra amenities to their guests who are sailing in the upper category suites. While everyone on board will have twice daily steward service in their cabins for cleaning, fresh linens and towels, ice and water -- some suites also offer a personal valet (butler), concierge service, and other extra daily amenities, including formal tea in your own suite every afternoon and canapés prior to dinner while you are dressing.

A: Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms. And most ships will even provide hair dryers in each cabin We will be able to assist you as to the availability and usage for your own personal items depending on the ship you are sailing on.

A: Again, there are choices and more choices. During the day there are many different dining options -- in the formal dining room, on deck, in a pizzeria, buffet, or at an espresso bar, to name just a few. There is room service as well, already included in the cost of the cruise, and is available 24 hours a day. There will be a menu in each cabin with the many selections available. At night, most ships offer several venues. Some ships' dining rooms can accommodate all guests at one time, called a "seating". Many ships offer you a choice of several seating times, and others encourage you to come to dinner whenever you like -- for "open seating" -- also known as "personal choice dining" -- and "freestyle dining". More traditional ships have two seatings in their formal dining rooms, which differ only by time -- typically 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. To choose, just decide whether you prefer to dine early or late -- then let us know your preference when you book your cruise. Frequently, you can choose to enjoy dinner someplace other than the formal dining room, such as in an intimate restaurant that features, Italian, Chinese, Japanese or Southwestern cuisine. More and more cruise lines are opening up their informal lido areas to evening dining where the dress and dishes always are casual, and sometimes, you can even eat out under the stars. And a large number of ships offer romantic in-cabin dining -- especially nice for those who have personal balconies. The choice is yours!

A: Everything you've heard about cruise ship dining is true. At each meal, you'll find a varied selection of entrees (appetizers, salads, soups, vegetables, and desserts too) and each day the selection will be different. If you've ever wanted to experiment with a cuisine or try a dish, you can feel free to order more than one entree or appetizer (or dessert!). But just because your cruise ship offers plenty of delicious food, doesn't mean you'll come home out of shape. You can choose low-cal, spa, vegetarian or fitness menu selections that are just as tempting as the regular menu. Best of all, the one thing you'll never see on a cruise ship menu is a price. Because your meals are included!

A: Most ships can accommodate salt-free, low-carb, low-cholesterol, Kosher, or other diet preferences. However, this request must be made in advance so be sure to advise us when you book your cruise if you have dietary restrictions.

A: Experienced cruisers say they prefer sitting at a table with several other diners; some lifelong friendships have been made this way. But the cruise lines are geared to accommodate each guest's wishes, and it is possible to request a table for two or four. In the unlikely event that you do wish to change tablemates, speak with the maitre d', who will make every effort to seat you with more compatible dining companions -- discretely and politely, of course.

A: Virtually all ships have smoking and nonsmoking sections in the public rooms and on deck. In fact, most dining rooms and some entire ships are totally smoke-free, reflecting passenger requests. Most all cabins are "smoking optional" except on the smoke free ships, where it is totally prohibited there as well. No cigar smoking is permitted in any public area, and is permitted in those areas designated for cigar smoking.

A: Absolutely! Most cruise lines will even treat you to a complimentary cake and a chorus of "Happy Whatever" to honor the occasion. Your birthday or anniversary can be more festive with champagne, flowers or canapés You can even arrange a special private party. Just let us know in advance so we can set it up for you.

A: Quite easily. Most ships now have either internet capabilities direct from your stateroom (you can use either your own notebook or rent one from them) -- or an Internet cafe area with computers. Each ship's charges for usage vary. There are also telephones connected to satellite in every stateroom, where you can either call out or receive calls -- however, these can be rather pricey. Costs per minute can range from $9.95 to $15 -- but will be posted near the phone. The charges are then posted to your onboard account. You can also send or receive faxes through the Guest Relations desk -- and they will provide you with the information and form you will need for those. And as a method of keeping up with world news while on board the ship -- there are televisions in every stateroom with news briefs running in print format 24/7 -- as well as CNN on most ships. There will also be a daily printed newspaper available on most ships -- received via satellite feed by the ship and printed on board.

A: Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan on about $3.50 per day per person for both your room steward and your dining room waiter, and about $2.00 for the assistant waiter (or busboy). Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion. Some cruise lines state, "Tipping not required" -- meaning it is at your discretion. However, we have personally found that the crew aboard those ships also are dependent on tips for their primary income. Based on our level of service -- we tip them as well. Some cruise lines maintain a total no tipping policy -- those will be a few of the luxury cruise lines where both the level or service you receive and the privilege of receiving it have been well taken care of for you in advance and included in your cruise fare. Some cruise lines have also now gone to either offering "prepaid" tips -- or tips automatically charged to your shipboard account each day. We do not recommend paying tips in advance, personally, as we feel that we still have the right to choose to whom and how much we will tip based on the level of service we receive on the ship. Even for those cruise lines that automatically charge a set amount per day per person for your tips -- you do have the right to go to the Guest Relations desk and adjust those amounts. Our concern here is that we want to be certain that those individuals who have truly gone the extra mile for us are the ones receiving our tip money. It is a shame, however, that some of the cruise lines have felt the need to do the automatic charging due to the fact that so many guests were failing to compensate the crew who have worked so hard to see that your cruise experience was a good one. One of the reasons we refuse to ever participate in prepaid tips -- is that we feel that is a recipe for poor service. Again, tipping is very personal -- but should certainly be practiced. When you figure your basic tips computed with the figures given above -- you will have to agree that you would be unable to go out to eat in your own home town at a fine dining establishment, three meals per day -- and pay such a small amount for tips. It is a delight to sail on the luxury lines where the crew are well paid, and the service is demanded of them -- and the tips are included in the cruise fare -- but that service, again, has already been well compensated for in the cruise price.

A: While cruise ships are not comprehensive medical facilities, cruise lines understand that some people may have health needs during a cruise. Thus they are committed to providing first response and emergency care to guests until they can be transferred to a shoreside medical facility. Most cruise lines have 24-hour medical services and staff operating under guidelines developed in conjunction with the American College of Emergency Physicians. Cruise lines, and travel agents, encourage vacationers to obtain traveler's medical insurance, travel with adequate supplies of medical prescriptions and devices, and to disclose preexisting medical conditions before sailing.

A: Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and dry-cleaning services aboard, for a fee of course. However, many ships also have self-service launderettes complete with irons and ironing boards as well. We will be happy to supply you with the information regarding the particular ship you have selected to sail on.